Goldblum's character

PostGazette, 11.2.08
By Rob Owen, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Tuned In: Jeff Goldblum takes on the law

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USA Network's "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" returns this week, but the show, which alternates its lead detectives every other week, won't see a big change for its eighth season until Nov. 14 when Pittsburgh native Jeff Goldblum debuts as Zach Nichols, who partners with Megan Wheeler (Julianne Nicholson) on New York's Major Case Squad.

In the Nov. 14 episode, viewers meet Nichols as he and Wheeler investigate the murder of a wealthy Belgian diplomat. But in the midst of the case Nichols retreats to a movie theater to gather perspective, something that will become a signature move.

Goldblum said these seeming detours give Nichols as chance to "focus consciously on one thing and allow my subconscious to bubble up with something else. It gets me to a place of receptivity where I can stop thinking in one way and something else takes place where my mind just works on its own."

Nichols' background will slowly be revealed as viewers discover he was a cop who was once partnered with Capt. Danny Ross (Eric Bogosian), but Nichols quit the force after 9-11. Nathan said viewers will learn Nichols is the son of two psychiatrists and they'll meet Nichols' daughter and ex-wife. Another episode will explore the strained relationship between Nichols and his father. Full article

Thanks Keiko and Peachybc!